Course description

*This course is being advertised subject to approval*

Financial systems are undergoing rapid transformation as technology, data and artificial intelligence (AI) reshape how markets operate and how financial decisions are made.  The MSc FinTech and RegTech places you at the centre of this change, helping you understand how innovation is reshaping markets and influencing financial decision making.  The course brings together financial markets, emerging technologies and regulatory technology to give you a comprehensive understanding of the future of the sector.

You will explore the development of digital financial infrastructures and market innovation, including blockchain-based systems, decentralised finance (DeFi) and cryptoassets, alongside the evolution of trading, payments, and market structure.  At the same time you will build a strong foundation in the core financial principles that underpin instruments and market behaviour, and learn how to apply analytical approaches used to interpret evidence in data-driven environments.  Practical experience is central to the course, with opportunities to develop and demonstrate your technical skills through hands-on analytical work using Python or R, interpreting model outputs and producing evidence-based insights.

A distinctive element of the programme is its focus on RegTech and SupTech and the governance, ethical and compliance challenges created by automated decision systems.  As organisations increasingly rely on advanced models that can influence credit decisions, trading behaviour and operational processes, new questions arise around transparency, accountability, auditability, fairness and responsible data use.  You will learn how to critically evaluate these issues and to consider how regulation, assurance and compliance-by-design shape responsible innovation in technology-enabled financial systems.

This course is ideal for you if you want to work at the intersection of finance, technology, risk and regulation.  It will equip you to interpret financial data, navigate complex technological developments, and assess emerging risks with clarity and confidence.  Through both applied and research-informed learning, you will develop the ability to think critically, apply evidence-based reasoning to finance problems and to understand the wider impact of innovation for markets, institutions and regulatory frameworks.

For your final module you can personalise your degree through taking one of three options:

• Dissertation
• Professional practice placement
• AI business project

If you complete the professional practice or AI pathway this will be reflected in your degree title, signalling your specialised expertise to employers.  These pathways offer a balance of academic knowledge and practical, real-world experience, equipping you with the skills and confidence to pursue a wide range of careers in the global, technology-driven finance industry.

Entry requirements